I walked along the banks of a small creek following its rocky path through the cool, shady woods. There were piles of sticks and debris caught in some vines I had to maneuver around. It reminded me of messes in my life, small monuments to the times when the storms of life dumped more on me than I could handle. The problems would pile up, caught in the vines of doubt, until the rushing waters of belief cleared the way.

As I passed through a spider web, I blindly swatted at the unseen entanglement. It stuck to me like a secret sin. I realized I need Jesus as my daily guide to lead me safely through Satan’s webs of deception. I should be walking not only by sight, but also by faith.

Winding Route

When I paused to survey my progress, I noticed the winding route I had pursued. Like the small creek, I have often taken the path of least resistance without giving thought to where it leads. In a hurry to get where I am going, I sometimes forget to concentrate on the direction.

At one point the creek slowed and pooled. On the muddy banks were the footprints of those who had recently been there. Even when I travel alone, I am walking in the footsteps of those who have gone before me.

Distant rumblings caused me to check for the vanishing sun, but the dense canopy only revealed a limited view and a patch of gray. I continued my journey thinking how troubles and situations press in so close that my perspective is dimmed and narrowed. I can’t see the forest for the trees when I’m only viewing and touched by what’s close to me. It’s only when I’m living and standing in the Light I can see more clearly.

A sudden, brisk wind told me that time was growing short. The gathering darkness and thundering warnings served to further remind me that this is not where I want to be. I must strengthen my resolve and quicken my pace if I am to reach home. The woods are lovely and the creek beckons me to rest, but I must travel on. This life is good, but earth is meant to be the journey. Heaven is the destination, and I am not home yet.

"For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former shall not be remembered or come to mind" (Isaiah 65:17).